Manchester’s underground rarely stays quiet for long, and Worm School are the latest to rise from its densely packed gig circuit with something worth paying attention to. Following on from the bands debut release “Jacob’s Ladder” their newest single “Cradle” feels like a proper arrival moment, not just another step.
After time spent cutting their teeth alongside the likes of TTSSFU, Bedroom Vacation and Thistle, the band sound on great form here. There’s no sense of hesitation. “Cradle” might open out slowly, built on soft-focus guitars and a kind of weightless atmosphere but that never tips into indulgence. It’s controlled, patient, and supremely confident.
The production plays a big part in that. Again working with Ben Easton of Deary and Dom Freeman, Worm School manage to translate their sonic live intensity into something even more expansive without losing that sense of intimacy. Every element feels considered, from the drifting textures to the way the track gradually gathers emotional pull. The final touch comes from Simon Scott of Slowdive on mastering duties, and his influence is clear in the track’s depth and clarity. It’s allowed to breathe deeply.
What stands out most is how fully realised it feels for a band still at this stage, it’s something we’ve remarked on before as it builds on the exciting promise of “Jacob’s Ladder” and pushes further towards a sound that feels distinctly their own.
There’s also a sense of relief and belief behind it. As vocalist Dan puts it, finding collaborators who “got” the band has made all the difference, and you can hear that trust running through the track. For a group stepping into wider view, “Cradle” suggests Worm School are already occupying a bigger space.
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